If you’re one of the many who needs to add more fruits and vegetables into their daily diet, we’ve found the tastiest solution. We’re talking cold-pressed juicing—the process of using hydraulic pressure to extract juice from the pulp of organic fruits and vegetables, explains Sorrel Hebert, owner and manager of Folsom’s Pure Life Juice Company. 

“This pressure squeezes out every last drop of liquid, leaving behind a pulp that is practically dry,” he says. “The process preserves the vital nutrients, vitamins, minerals and enzymes by the elimination of heat, which minimizes oxidation and allows [the] raw, living juice to stay good for up to 72 hours.” 

Recently, a few new juice bars have opened in the surrounding areas—just one sign of the movement’s growing popularity. “More and more people are becoming aware of what they put into their bodies and how it affects them daily,” Hebert says. “Cold-pressed juice is a great way to get all the vitamins and nutrients out of the fruits and vegetables without having to spend all day chomping on them. Plus, it’s delicious!”

Scott Estrada, co-owner of WholeHearted Juice Company in Sacramento, says people love the idea of juicing simply for all of the health benefits it provides. “The pros to cold-pressed juices are the higher nutrient value and density, freshness retained for days longer than a typical home juicer and incredible taste,” he shares.

As for the cons? Estrada explains that people might not want the commitment required to make these juices at home. The equipment can be costly, and not everyone will want to devote the amount of time required to prep, juice and clean up. “Naturally, they’re looking to pay someone for a high-quality product,” he says. Luckily, these juices are readily available from many companies and sold at a variety of local businesses, from Whole Foods to Zuda Yoga, as well as online for delivery. 

If you see what looks like fresh juice in a bottle, don’t overlook the label. “Simply picking up a bottle of juice doesn’t mean that it’s cold-pressed or that it doesn’t contain additives,” says Hayden Slater, co-founder and CEO of Roseville’s Pressed Juicery. “It’s important to carefully read labels and check for added sugar, water, powders, purées and artificial flavorings. The most nutrient-rich juices are made from fruits and vegetables and nothing more.”

And though convenience does come from picking up a bottle of raw juice on your way to work each morning, it’s not impossible to do it at home—and it can be fun. “Our book JUICE is a great resource for new or seasoned at-home juicers,” Slater says. “Of course, the first step is to buy the right juicer for your needs. After that, it’s all about experimenting with fresh, seasonal produce, creating flavors that you love and enjoying the benefits. We operate under the principle that wellness should be convenient and fun, not complex and intimidating. Whether you’re grabbing a juice or juicing on your own, we believe that accessible wellness is a right, not a luxury.”